Traits Writing

Program

The Key Qualities of the Traits

Definitionthe piece’s content—its central message and thedetails that support that message

Key Qualities• Finding a Topic• Focusing the Topic• Developing the Topic• Using Details

Ideas

Definitionthe internal structure of the piece- the thread of logic, the pattern of meaning

Key Qualities• Creating the Lead• Using Sequence Words and Transition Words• Structuring the Body• Ending With a Sense of Resolution

Organization

Definitionthe tone and tenor of the piece – the personal stamp of the writer – which is achieved through a strong understanding of purpose and audience

Key Qualities• Establishing a Tone• Conveying the Purpose• Creating a Connection to the Audience• Taking Risks to Create Voice

Voice

Definitionthe vocabulary the writer uses to convey meaning and enlighten the reader

Key Qualities•Applying Strong Verbs• Selecting Striking Words and Phrases•Using Specific and Accurate Words•Choosing Words That Deepen Meaning

Word Choice

Definitionthe way words and phrases flow through the piece. Sentence fluency is known as the auditory trait because it’s “read” with the ear as much as the eye.

Key Qualities• Crafting Well-Built Sentences• Varying Sentence Types• Capturing Smooth and Rhythmic Flow• Breaking the “Rules” to Create Fluency

Sentence Fluency

Definitionthe mechanical correctness of the piece. Correct use of conventions (spelling, capitalization, punctuation, and grammar and usage) guides the reader through the text easily.

Key Qualities• Checking Spelling• Punctuating Effectively• Capitalizing Correctly• Applying Grammar and Usage

Conventions

Definitionthe physical appearance of the piece. A visually appealing text provides a welcome mat. It invites the reader in.

Key Qualities• Applying Handwriting• Using Word Processing Effectively• Making Good Use of White Space• Refining Text Features

Presentation

Which trait would the key quality “Capitalizing Correctly” fit into?

A. Voice

B. Presentation

C. Conventions

Answer: C. Conventions

Example #1

Answer

Which trait would the key quality “Applying Strong Verbs” fit into?

A. Voice

B. Word Choice

C. Ideas

Answer: B. Word Choice

Example #2

Answer

Which trait would the key quality “Using Details” fit into?

A. Ideas

B. Word Choice

C. Organization

Answer: A. Ideas

Example #3

Answer

Which trait would the key quality “Varying Sentence Types” fit into?

A. Presentation

B. Organization

C. Sentence Fluency

Answer: C. Sentence Fluency

Example #4

Answer